What a fun day! After another early breakfast, the team drove together to HillTop Church in downtown Jackson to spend the morning at The Basket, a weekly food bank ministry. After packing over 200 boxes with a generous selection of meat, potatoes, fruit, vegetables, milk, and pastries, the team gathered together to pray and thank God for His gracious provision and the opportunity to meet the physical needs of those in the surrounding community. Over the next two hours, the team was able to distribute every box and take time to have a conversation, pray, and hear the story of each person who drove or walked up to the church. It was a powerful morning filled with Gospel conversations, joyous laughs, and a few tears. The students left encouraged and challenged by the humility and perspective of those we served. 

Blessed by a cool, cloudy day, the team enjoyed lunch on the marble steps of the Mississippi State Capitol building. After an unexpected conversation with an employee arriving for work, the team was invited in for a short tour and enjoyed learning about the history of the building, Jackson, and the state legislature. It has been such a blessing to see the students adapt to the changes in the schedule while trusting in the sovereignty of God who has perfectly ordained every detail!

Once again, the afternoon was spent at Canopy in the same groups with their students. The introductions from yesterday made for a smooth transition for everyone. Conversations deepened, testimonies were exchanged, and God used each activity to provide an opening for the Gospel. The boldness of the team was evident in their eagerness to ask questions, yet balanced by a willingness to listen and a sensitivity to the leading of the Holy Spirit. We are so proud of every single one of them!

The team then had the opportunity to eat an early dinner with the members of the church where we are staying during their weekly congregational meal. The food has been incredible and everyone’s hospitality has left the team speechless. We are so grateful for the generosity of the church here and their desire to reflect the love of Jesus in everything they do. Following the dinner of pulled pork, spaghetti, coleslaw, potato salad, and the largest selection of desserts east of the Mississippi, the team headed back to HillTop Church for their Wednesday night service. After a time of worship and prayer, the team listened intently to a sermon on Genesis 1-3 and the beautiful truth that we are all created in the image of God.

The night ended with a team debrief and more praises from a long day of ministry. The team is tired but was noticeably rejuvenated hearing how God is working in the conversations in each group. Tomorrow cannot come soon enough! Please be praying for continued strength, opportunities to share the hope of the Gospel tomorrow afternoon at Canopy, and dry weather to finish the work projects in the morning! Praise God for His faithfulness and sustaining grace!